Landing an internship or externship in New York City? Major congrats. Whether you’re here for a paid internship or building experience to launch your dream career, you’re stepping into the city where ambition, opportunity, and unforgettable memories collide. But let’s be real: the logistics of moving—even for just a summer—can feel like a full-time job.
Whether you’re exploring internship options or have already found your perfect NYC internship, we’re here to make it simple. This guide covers how to score summer housing in New York City for interns, budget for life in the Big Apple, master the subway, and make the most of every single day.
And thanks to CORT Furniture Rental, you won’t have to worry about furniture shopping or hauling heavy stuff. This is your ultimate blueprint to work in New York for the summer—stress-free and seriously fun.
NYC Housing for Interns: Find Your Summer Housing Vibe
First things first: you’ve got to find a place to call home! Whether you’re apartment shopping from afar or plan to come to the city to see your short-term lease, here are a few of the most tried-and-tested ways to find an apartment for the summer in New York City.
Go Apartment Mode (Solo or Roomie Style)
Want a taste of true city living? Rent your own place—either solo or find a roommate, like other students and interns. ApartmentSearch can help you find short-term options near your office and scope out spaces in neighborhoods within walking distance. Plus, you’ll be able to preview amenities to make sure you make the most of your city summer.
Find an apartment that’s not furnished? CORT’s got you. Our stylish, expertly curated student furniture packages let you skip the buying, moving, and assembling – while getting a discount. Plus, you can even get the goods you need for the kitchen and bathroom! With fast delivery and flexible rental terms, you’ll go from empty apartment to fully furnished haven overnight.
Other Housing Routes
Need an alternative to an apartment in NYC? We’ve got you covered. Here are some additional options to consider!
- Sublets: Locals leaving for the summer often rent out their spots—Facebook groups are gold for finding a short-term rental. Just be sure to vet your space and ensure that all listings are legitimate.
- Student housing: Universities like NYU and Columbia open their dorms to students and intern summer residents. However, you will be making some sacrifices–down the hall bathrooms, anyone?
- Internship program resources: If you’re doing one of the many internships in NYC with housing, your program might have connections or roomie matchups.
- Hotels and short-term vacation rentals: If you’re doing a short summer internship–weeks, not months–checking out a hotel, Airbnb, or VRBO might be the right move. However, this may be one of the most expensive options on this list–and can end up costing you in terms of fees.
How to Budget Like a Pro (Even in NYC)
You’ve got a spot. Now it’s time to figure out how to really live, without breaking the bank. We get it—internships in New York aren’t always padded with a big paychec, and city living can get expensive. So let’s make your money stretch.
Make the Most of Walking & Public Transportation
Let’s face it: you’re going to want to explore the city! It can’t be all work no play. But taxi rides add up fast. Luckily, NYC is one of the most walkable cities in the US. For longer distances, use a MetroCard or use OMNY to tap your phone or card at the subway turnstile. It’s just $2.90 per ride, and OMNY caps your fare after 12 rides in a week—so the rest are free. Way better than pricey rideshares.
Cook at Home
NYC is home to some of the world’s best cuisine. But takeout and eating out can add up fast. Make a habit of whipping up easy meals in your rental’s kitchen with CORT-supplied cookware.
Whether you’re meal-prepping or just heating up Trader Joe’s finds, cooking at home saves serious cash (and gives you more money for weekend plans).
Track Your Spending With Budgeting Apps
Download budgeting apps like Mint or YNAB to keep your spending on track. Once your rent and Metro costs are set, you’ll want a clear picture of how much you can spend on food, coffee runs, and fun without stress.
Take Advantage of What’s Free in NYC
Take full advantage of NYC’s amazing free experiences. Think movies under the stars at Bryant Park, sunrise yoga in Prospect Park, First Fridays at museums, and spontaneous pop-up festivals. There’s always something happening—and your wallet will thank you.
Build Your NYC Bucket List
Sure, you’re here to gain work experience, but NYC is not just a backdrop—it’s part of the story. Before you step foot on Manhattan, scope out some of your must-dos, but don’t be afraid to let the city take you where it may!
Need some inspo? Add these Insta-worthy items to your summer in NYC list:
- Walk the Brooklyn Bridge at sunset
- Hit a Smorgasburg food market
- Picnic in Prospect or Central Park
- Score free museum nights (The Met, MoMA, and more)
- Visit the Friends apartment or Carrie Bradshaw’s stoop
- Check out a rooftop bar (mocktails count, too!)
In a city that never sleeps, the options for after-work and weekend fun are endless!
How to Work, Get Around, and Live Like a Local During Your NYC Internship
From getting a hang of the boroughs to picking up the pace, these tips will help you start living like a New Yorker during your NYC internship in no time.
Transit Tips
Folks in NYC are friendlier than movies and TV will have you think–but it’s best to ensure you know how (and where) you’re going. The isle is bigger than you’d think!
Citymapper or Google Maps will be your new best friends. Remember to screenshot directions before heading into the subway (yes, the signal is spotty).
Get to Know Your Block
One of the best parts of moving to a new city–even if temporarily–is carving out your own little nook. Find your go-to bodega, the best local coffee, and a peaceful green space. Knowing your neighborhood helps the city feel less intimidating and more like a short-term home.
Stay Street Smart
If you’re not used to the fast pace (literally) of city life, New York City may take you by surprise. NYC pedestrians move fast. Walk with purpose, stay to the right, and don’t stop in the middle of the sidewalk or try to jaywalk—we love ya, but you will get side-eyed.
Making Connections That Matter: Tips to Ensure You Rock Your NYC Internship
Living in the city is just one part of calling your NYC summer internship a success! This isn’t just about getting away or checking a box on your job description—it’s about setting the tone for your future.
Internships in NYC offer way more than just bullet points for your resume. This is your chance to build real relationships, explore your career path, and show what you’re made of. Here’s how to make it count.
Dress the Part
First impressions are everything, especially in a fast-paced city like New York. Take the time to learn your company’s dress code in advance—whether that’s business casual, creative casual, or full-on corporate chic. When in doubt, dress one notch above what you think is expected for the first day. From there, you can always dial it back if needed.
Comfort is key, especially if you’re commuting. Choose shoes you can walk in (yes, you’ll walk a lot), and pack a small umbrella in your bag—NYC weather can switch up fast.
Know the Culture
Every workplace has its own rhythm, and learning it quickly is part of the intern game. Observe how your teammates communicate—do they use Slack or email? Are meetings formal or casual? Pick up on small cues, and match the tone while still being yourself. Attention to detail matters more than you think.
Also, show up on time (or early), be proactive, and follow through on tasks—even the small ones. Reliability goes a long way–and can set you up for an offer!
Say Yes More Often
There’s more to your internship than what’s on paper. Join the intern mixers. Say yes to lunch invites and coffee runs. These informal moments are where real networking happens. Relationships formed now can turn into mentorships, references, or even job offers later.
Not a social butterfly? No problem. Set small, achievable goals—like introducing yourself to someone new each week or joining one after-work event. The goal is to build your confidence and expand your circle, one convo at a time.
Ask Smart Questions
Don’t be afraid to speak up—but make sure you’ve done your homework first. Asking thoughtful, informed questions shows initiative and curiosity. Whether you’re learning about a project or just asking someone how they got started in the field, it’s a great way to learn and stand out.
Keep It Professional
NYC is energetic, and folks can be informal, but your internship is still a job. Be friendly, but don’t overshare. Use your email wisely. Stay off your phone during meetings. Be respectful of others’ time and space, especially in open offices.
And don’t ghost! If you’re running late or need to take a sick day, communicate clearly and professionally. Being dependable builds trust.
CORT: Your Summer Setup, Solved
Let’s be honest—furnishing a short-term rental isn’t fun. Buying a bed? Transporting a sofa…with what car? Figuring out what to do with it all when the summer ends? Pass. Nope. Next,
That’s why CORT Furniture Rental is here to help you make your short-term move. CORT lets you rent everything you need—from cozy beds to kitchenware—with just a few clicks. Our CORT Clean Certified™ standards mean everything is fresh and spotless. Our delivery pros handle the setup and move out process. And our stylish finds ensure you’ll be proud of your space–whether you’re living solo or sharing a place.
Ready to kick off a summer adventure and start your next chapter in NYC? Get started online or in-person at your local CORT showroom and get your NYC chapter started right.
